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Just Draw Botanicals

Just Draw Botanicals
Just Draw Botanicals

Helen Birch

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Synopsis


Petite in size but packed with inspiration, Just Draw Botanicals presents 90 beautiful, contemporary botanical artworks in a range of media and styles.

Each spread includes a stunning work of art paired with a discussion of the artist's approach to creating it, including the techniques employed. At the bottom of the page, find tips on the tools, materials and methods used to make the piece.

A hyper-realistic blackberry, a watercolour sketch of a bunch of mint in a glass, a detailed scratchboard study of three pussy willow twigs, a tribal-style pattern inspired by different leaf shapes, an abstract image-transfer print of a milkweed plant… the techniques and subjects covered are diverse. With these and more artworks - created in a variety of media, including watercolour, coloured pencils, oil, pen and ink, mixed media and pencil - explore:

  • Shape, form and light
  • Harmonious colours
  • Contrasting elements
  • Fine detail
  • Capturing movement
  • Cropped compositions
  • Using negative space
  • Anatomical accuracy
A visual index is included at the front of the book so you can easily skip to a style or colour palette that interests you. At the back of the book, find an overview of materials and tips for using them; a list of further resources, including books and websites; and two additional indexes, one by artist name and the other by subject.

Whether you are an artist looking for fresh ideas for creating botanical art or simply enjoy looking at nature-inspired images, this portable volume is a rich resource.

Helen Birch

Summary

Chapter 1: The Basics of Line, Shape, and Value

This chapter provides a foundation in fundamental drawing concepts. It covers the importance of using different line weights, shapes, and values to create depth and texture.

Example: Drawing a simple leaf, starting with a curved line for the stem, triangular shapes for the leaf lobes, and varying line weights to suggest veins.

Chapter 2: Understanding Leaves

This chapter focuses on the diverse shapes, textures, and venation patterns of leaves. It demonstrates how to capture the unique characteristics of different plant species.

Example: Drawing a eucalyptus leaf, observing its elongated shape, parallel veins, and smooth edges.

Chapter 3: Drawing Flowers

This chapter explores the anatomy and drawing techniques for various flower types. It emphasizes capturing the delicate petals, stamens, and pistils.

Example: Drawing a rose, paying attention to the overlapping and curved nature of its petals, as well as the arrangement of its stamens and pistils.

Chapter 4: Creating Stems and Branches

This chapter covers the principles of drawing realistic stems, branches, and vines. It shows how to create dimension and texture using line weight and hatching.

Example: Drawing a grapevine, emphasizing the curved and twisting nature of its stems, as well as the clusters of grapes attached to the branches.

Chapter 5: Composition and Focal Points

This chapter discusses the importance of composition and how to arrange botanical elements to create a pleasing and dynamic drawing. It covers principles such as balance, asymmetry, and focal points.

Example: Creating a still life drawing of flowers in a vase, placing the focal point on the central flower and using surrounding flowers to create depth and balance.

Chapter 6: Finishing Touches and Details

This chapter provides techniques for adding depth and realism to botanical drawings. It covers color, shading, and highlights, as well as methods for creating textures and imperfections.

Example: Coloring a rose drawing, using different shades of pink and green to suggest depth and give the flower a lifelike appearance.